The global leader in group fitness has revealed the results of their Global Fitness Survey today. The Les Mills 2021 Global Fitness Survey features insights from 12,157 consumers across 14 countries and explores how the pandemic has changed our fitness habits and spotlights the trends that will shape our workouts in the years to follow.
According to the Global Consumer Fitness report the gyms around the world are seeing a massive recovery as we emerge from the pandemic in 2021 and 2022, with fitness fans anxious to get back to live fitness workouts. Additionally, in the Middle East gyms are on a strong path towards recovery, with class occupancy catching up at 88% pre-COVID levels. And other global markets are up by 120% of pre-COVID membership levels where capacity restrictions have lifted.
Furthermore, after months of isolation and a year of enforced home workouts, the appetite for live fitness experiences in groups is soaring, with 85% of gymgoers interested in trying live classes in their facility. Two-thirds of global gym members (67%) prefer working out with others in small or large groups, whereas this number is even higher in The Middle East with 79%, while live classes in clubs are nearly twice as appealing as online classes that are live streamed (done by 44% of members vs 23%).
These findings were revealed at a panel discussion hosted by Les Mills on the 22nd February 2022 in Dubai. The event featured an esteemed line up of fitness and hospitality experts who gathered to discuss the latest fitness trends and the future of the global fitness community.
“After months of being stuck at home, people can’t wait to get back to fitness facilities and enjoy their favorite workouts. Many people have missed the thrill of a busy class and the extra motivation you get from working out with others while being led by a trained Instructor. We are looking forward to adapting to the gradual changes in the coming years”, said Glen Stollery, CEO, Les Mills International – India, Middle East and Africa.